The production of Gladiator 2 has issued a response in light of recent accusations of animal mistreatment made by PETA, and animal rights organizations.
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) has directed complaints to the cast and director of Gladiator 2, leveling accusations against the production for their alleged use and mistreatment of live animals during filming.
PETA has sent letters to both Gladiator 2 lead actor Pedro Pascal and director Ridley Scott, asking the production to cease the use of horses and macaque monkeys on set. These complaints come in response to “whistleblower reports” that the animal rights organization claims to have received.
As a continuation of the 2000 classic Gladiator, Ridley Scott’s long-awaited sequel has been the subject of numerous speculations and rumored plotlines over the years. The much-anticipated film features Paul Mescal taking the role of adult Lucius, with other supporting cast including Denzel Washington, Pedro Pascal, Connie Nielsen, and potentially also actor Djimon Hounsou.
What are the allegations surrounding Gladiator 2?
As reported by the Los Angeles Times, PETA has made serious allegations of animal abuse against the Gladiator 2 production. The animal rights organization asserts that they have received “whistleblower reports” detailing the mistreatment of horses and primates on the set of the movie. In response to these claims, PETA has sent letters to both Ridley Scott and Pedro Pascal, urging them to discontinue the use of live animals in the film.
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However, a source closely connected to the production has contradicted PETA’s accusations. According to this insider, a certified representative from the American Humane Society has been present during all animal-related activities on the set. The source further asserts that there have been no reported animal injuries or incidents during the filming of Gladiator 2.
As the situation unfolds, let’s see how the production and PETA will address and resolve these conflicting claims.
What does the letter claim?
In the letter addressed to Ridley Scott, PETA appeals to the director and raises concerns about the potential negative consequences of having primates on the set. The organization alleges that the use of primates in the film may involve “abusive training” methods, leading to possible self-harm and stunted development among the animals.
Another letter specifically directed to Ridley Scott dated July 14, mentions the “whistleblower reports” regarding an incident of a horse on the set of the film. According to the letter, the horse’s leg reportedly “gave out on set, presumably due to the heat” while filming in Malta.
The letter also mentions the raised concerns about the horses being subjected to scorching summer heat while being forced to stand in direct sunlight between takes. The combination of extreme temperatures and the heavy costumes worn by them poses a dangerous situation for the naturally skittish animals, making them prone to injury and stress on the film set.
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The letter also draws on past incidents within the film and television industries, mentioning instances of on-set horse injuries and deaths. PETA expresses a genuine hope that Gladiator 2 will take every precaution to prevent any casualties happening. “We sincerely hope Gladiator 2 avoids adding another death to that list”, says the letter.
In a third letter addressed to Pedro Pascal, the organization restates its apprehensions regarding the supposed involvement of horses and macaques in the Gladiator 2 production.
Apart from this issue, the production of the film is also currently grappling with a fresh set of challenges due to the ongoing SAG-AFTRA strike. As lead actors are unable to continue filming, the production is reportedly finding ways to progress in other ways. With the filming being delayed, there is a possibility that the release date, currently slated for next year could be delayed if the strike persists for an extended period.
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